Description
Ligandrol is known by several names. These include LGD-4033, VK5211, and Anabolicum . Its molecular formula is C14H12F6N2O, with a molecular weight of 338.25 g/mol . The CAS number is 1165910-22-4 .
Mechanism of Action
Ligandrol acts as a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM). It binds to specific sites on skeletal muscles . This action initiates gene expression changes in muscle cells. Consequently, muscle repair and growth increase . Importantly, it shows selectivity for muscle and bone over prostate tissue in animal models .
Research and Clinical Applications
Potential Therapeutic Uses
Researchers have studied Ligandrol for various conditions. These include muscle wasting and osteoporosis . It has been investigated as a treatment for cancer-related weight loss . Additionally, studies have explored it for hip fracture recovery in elderly patients .
Clinical Trial Findings
A 21-day clinical trial in healthy young men showed dose-dependent increases in lean body mass . However, higher doses (1.0 mg/day) caused significant testosterone suppression . A trial with hip fracture patients (65+) showed improved walking distance .
Safety and Side Effect Profile
Documented Adverse Effects
Ligandrol carries significant side effect risks. Common side effects include sleep problems, infertility, and upset stomach . A survey of SARM users reported mood swings (22.4%) and decreased testes size (20.7%) . Serious side effects include heart attack, stroke, and liver damage . A case report documented Ligandrol-induced liver injury .
Long-Term Safety
The long-term effects of Ligandrol remain unknown . Importantly, clinical trial participants had similar side effect rates to placebo groups . However, it is still considered an experimental drug .
Legal Status and Regulatory Actions
World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA)
WADA places Ligandrol on its prohibited list . It is banned for use by professional athletes .
Regulatory Status by Country
In the U.S., Ligandrol is an unapproved drug. It cannot be legally sold as a dietary supplement . Argentina banned “LIGANDROL Dietary Supplement, 90 capsules, 5 mg, marca King Hardcore” . China includes it in the 2026 doping control list . Australia’s TGA does not approve its sale .
Internal and External Links
Internal Resources
Visit our Research Chemical Library for related SARMs. Explore our Guide to Androgen Receptor Modulators. Review our Safety Protocols and Regulatory Compliance FAQ.
External Resources
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[WebMD]: View side effect and safety information at WebMD.
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[Sydney University]: Read the explainer on how Ligandrol works at Sydney University.
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[ChEBI]: Access chemical data at EMBL-EBI.
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[PubChem]: View chemical information for CAS 1165910-22-4.
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[ProQuest]: Read the systematic review on SARM safety at ProQuest.
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[WADA]: Check the prohibited list at WADA.
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